This story originally appeared on the Gents Cafe Newsletter. You can subscribe here.
Meet Joshua Geniole (@joshuageniole), a realtor living on the outskirts of Toronto, Canada.
What are your main passions and how do you cultivate them?
I love bringing people together and building connections. To stay fit, I practice Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which is also a great way for men to bond. I’m passionate about film photography and always return from my travels with rolls of film waiting to be developed.
How did you first develop an appreciation for style?
It began in my early twenties, traveling to Italy and witnessing the effortless style of Italians.
What does “being well-dressed” mean to you?
It’s more than just wearing expensive clothes—it’s about confidence, attention to detail, and dressing for the occasion. Prioritizing classic over trendy, quality over quantity, subtle accessories, and of course well-maintained shoes.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?
“You need to stick to the plan. Just because something bad happens doesn’t mean you should put everything on hold—keep moving forward.” – An older, wiser, friend of mine.
What does your ideal Sunday look like?
Sundays are a special part of the week. My ideal Sunday begins with a coffee from the moka, filling the house with its rich aroma—a slow, quiet start. After that, my wife and I attend church, then put on our favorite music and take a drive through the countryside, stopping somewhere for lunch. Once we’re back home, we prepare for the week ahead, feeling refreshed and ready for Monday.
What’s a place that holds significant meaning for you, and why?
My family’s hometown, Laureana di Borrello, in Calabria, Italy, is where I find true relaxation—distant, hard to reach, and like a step back in time. I try to visit every summer, staying at my aunt’s house, the same place my mother stayed as a child. Time moves slower there. The people are warm, the food is incredible, the sea is calm, the sun is hot, and the air is fresh. When I dip my head into the sea, I feel completely at peace.
What’s a driving experience that left a lasting memory on you?
Before transitioning to real estate, I spent over 14 years as a barber—a trade that opened many doors and unique opportunities. Five years ago, I had the incredible experience of working at Boys Club Barbershop in Palermo. It was a rare opportunity to immerse myself in Sicilian culture and witness the art of barbering at its finest.
What’s the most unusual job you’ve ever had?
I’ve worked many jobs—various barbershops, shoe stores, grocery stores, pizza delivery, shoe shiner and construction—but one of the most fun and unique experiences was working at a record store in my late teens. It felt like the best job in the world—I got to talk about music all day. My knowledge of music expanded dramatically, and in many ways, it was a life-changing experience. I haven’t been the same since.
Do you collect anything? If so, how did that passion start?
I do collect espresso cups or “tazzine”. I love my espresso cups, I collect them from my travels or restaurants that hold a memory. Each one has a story, and they all bring me back to a certain time and place. I also practice the stoic thought that one day they may fall or break and I have accepted that.
What are your three favorite books?
Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell, Iron John by Robert Bly, and Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist.
What are your three favorite movies?
La Grande Bellezza, The Godfather Part II, and Good Will Hunting.
